Owyn went to live with Helen Keever in Houston at 8 months of age and naturally had some adjustments to make. Here at Arylan there are many more dogs than people who interract among themselves primarily, with me as as a secondary albeit very significant influence. In Helen's house people outnumber dogs and most of the action takes place inside the home so there are more rules and customs to learn. I'm told that the learning period is almost complete and Owyn has become a first class citizen. He and Helen have also become trusted partners which is translating into success in the show ring. Owyn picked up his first wins in a while at the November Houston show taking Winners Dog on Saturday and Best of Opposite sex over 2 specials on Sunday! Way to go team!

    Helen should be credited for giving tons of attention to Owyn's physical and emotional needs during this critical period in his life. A dog may not understand every little thing we do on their behalf but they do know when they are generally cared about. I'm sure there has been no mistake there and Owyn is one secure feeling young dog.

    Owyn also went through quite a physical transformation after the OKC show last July 4 weekend. Some Cardi puppies seem to undergo very little in the way of growing pains but most will go through at least some degree of whackiness as their rear outgrows their front, or vice versa. Imagine how it feels to them trying to adjust their movement to these physical changes. Finally, it all starts to come back together again and congeal into the beautiful puppy we once knew. I was able to track Owyn's progress somewhat because I have his sister Lia here with me, the puppy who most resembled him in the litter box, and she got downright frightful there for a while. But just as she is now becoming quite the attractive young lady her brother is a handsome young Cardi male.

    What is in the future for this beautiful boy? Finishing his championship will be a snap. In fact, I've advised Helen to drag it out so as to enjoy every moment. Some limited specialing perhaps? I may get to see him in February if Helen can make it out to the Hobbs, NM show. If he meets my stringent requirements I will use him at stud and recommend that others consider him as well.

    Preliminary x-rays of Owyn's hips were the best I've ever seen. He'll get his permanent x-rays at 2 years. PRA line cleared. Eyes will be CERF'd soon.

    Owyn is old.